Photo of the Day: A Cry of Relief

By EGPAF | October 10, 2013

Early infant HIV testing and diagnosis is critical for children born to HIV-positive mothers. A newborn's immune system is comprised only of its mother’s antibodies, so a baby born to a mother enrolled in antiretroviral therapy (ART) is likely to test negative in most commonly used HIV tests. Mothers are encouraged to start their newborns on liquid ART and bring them back to clinics for multiple rounds of follow-up tests to ensure that the baby is, in fact, HIV-free.

Ideally, infants should be tested within the first two months of life, as early infant diagnosis and treatment have a huge impact on child survival.

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) supports clinics around the world that offer both adult and pediatric HIV care and treatment services. These integrated facilities increase both maternal and infant retention on HIV care and treatment and ensure that the family receives the best care possible.

To learn more about EGPAF’s work combatting pediatric HIV around the world, click here.

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